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I have always been a fan of pulling up fresh carrots from the soil and devouring them. But had never tried growing them in a container, as always my curiosity got the better of me, and then the much awaited purchase of the carrot seeds from the local nursery happened. I was quite surprised to note that the seeds resembled cumin seeds faintly.

I was told by my Amma that carrots need a lot of loose soil, and had to ensure that I raked the soil enough to ensure there were no weeds or stones . Started with one big pot. The carrots seemed adamant in testing my patience and took around 3 weeks just to germinate. I was instructed to keep the soil moist, weed free all the time.

In two months time, the leaves resembled that of very tall coriander plants ,reminding me of my coriander pots.

When I couldnt wait longer, I pulled out a plant and was extremely dissappointed to see these babies just forming.

And then the wait continued which seemed like forever, and then at 70 days , could see the heads pushing up previously seen here. I was instructed to cover the heads up with soil.

And finally on the 87th day came the labour of love, I pulled most of them out and left some in the pot. So here’s presenting the baby carrots.

Was not very happy with the size of the produce . apparently I needed to fertilise them which I did not. All I would do is mulch them enough.

And here’s what I made with the first batch. A few glasses of the freshest carrot juice which I know will work wonders for my eyes.

I grow my carrots in old zinc wash tubs. (I have rocky, shallow soil in the only area of my yard that I have sun.) I added extra sand this year and had better results. I also planted varieties that get fat and stubby–Nantes was my best performer. I tend to plant thick and then eat the thinnings when they are small and tender. My grandmother taught me to do that with greens, onions, and carrots. Your carrots are lovely. You must have a real feeling of achievement!